Celebrate Earth Day with SeaQuest!

What is Earth Day?

Earth Day is a beloved holiday that recognizes achievements in environmental movements and helps raise awareness of the importance of long-term ecological sustainability. Simply put, Earth Day is all about education on climate change and how we can help the environment! It is usually observed around the globe on April 22, though sometimes, in other areas outside the United States, it is celebrated on the day the vernal equinox occurs.

Earth Day continues to grow as a worldwide phenomenon focused on promoting clean living and a healthy, sustainable habitat for people and wildlife alike. It is a time that helps remind us how fragile our planet is and how important it is to protect it.

History of Earth Day

In the 1960s and 70s, the U.S. was divided over the participation of our country in the Vietnam War.  And though the economy was growing positively, it was taking a big toll on the environment. Heavy reliance on leaded gasoline for more cars. Factories, chemical plants, and oil industries experienced big growth, which, in turn, created more air pollution and environmental waste. And unlike today, the planet’s health is not a high priority for most people. Many were simply unaware of the dangerous side effects that were occurring. Small groups of individuals began to advocate for environmental protection and raised awareness about preserving the planet.

The First Earth Day

Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin was the first to initiate major political change regarding environmental protection. In 1970, he introduced his idea for a ‘national teach-in on the environment concept.  A committee was created to promote a new holiday called Earth Day in the country.

On April 22, 1970, the United States celebrated the first Earth Day. 20 million people around the U.S. gathered together to hold demonstrations and participate in activities to promote a clean and safe living environment. Children, adults, and students marched to push for new legislation to protect the Earth on local, state, and national levels. Because of the efforts of the first Earth Day, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established. The Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act were also introduced and passed. It was the beginning of radical changes to better the environment.

Ways to Celebrate Earth Day

Earth Day has made positive impacts on the environment globally but has also had a significant role at U.S. state and local levels as well. There are many ways to participate in protecting the Earth and making it a safer place! Water conservation, recycling, and saving energy are all important parts of protecting the environment. Kids can even start at a young age. Brushing teeth with the water off and remembering to turn the lights off when they are not in use are small steps that can impact the planet. Implement the 3 R’s: Always look for ways you can Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle throughout your home. You’ll save natural resources, energy, and money, and you’ll reduce waste sent to landfills.

Here are a few other small steps that can make a big impact:

• Recycle when you can to help reduce waste.
• Learn more energy-saving techniques for the home.
• Get involved in local sustainability programs
• Learn about Eco-friendly gardening & composting.
• Try new healthy eating habits!

Here are some fun activities for the whole family to celebrate Earth Day:

• Offer Free bike tune-up
• Plan a bike rodeo for kids
• Build Your Own Backyard Animal Feeder
• Attend your local Farmer’s market
• Have an arts and crafts party
• Start a small garden and plant some fruits and veggies
• Play some fun eco-entertainment games
• Visit a local food truck rally

Celebrate Earth Day with us at SeaQuest! We are committed to protecting our world’s oceans and planet Earth. We focus on how to be proactive in finding solutions. Together, we can create real change to heal our planet. Learn more about how you can help SeaQuest with saving planet Earth. Book your visit today at any of the following locations: Utah, Las Vegas, Dallas-Fort Worth,  Sacramento, Minneapolis, Lynchburg, or New Jersey.